EC advances three infringement procedures against Hungary
The European Commission on Wednesday said it took three infringement procedures against Hungary to the next level. The procedures concern antitrust law for the farm sector, excise duties on spirits and trade of tobacco products.
In each of the cases, the EC requested that Hungary take action in a “reasoned opinion,” the second step of European Union infringement procedures. If the country fails to bring domestic legislation in line with EU law, the EC may decide to refer the cases to the European Court of Justice.
The EC asked Hungary to comply with rules that require cartel members be fined, noting that the country had earlier adopted a law “which essentially prevents the Hungarian competition authority from sanctioning cartels on agricultural products.”
The EC requested Hungary apply one, rather than two, excise duty rates on spirits, as required by an EU directive. It said one of the excise tax rates Hungary levies on spirits is “significantly higher than the other.”
The EC also asked Hungary to amend legislation that restricts the sale of tobacco products after the introduction of new tax rates. At present, following a change in the VAT or excise tax rates, tobacco products fitted with tax markings bearing the old rate may not be sold by wholesalers or importers after a period of 15 days.
ÁKK Sells HUF 50 bln of Bonds at Auction, Over Plan
Gov't Considering Fuel Price Intervention
SUPPORT THE BUDAPEST BUSINESS JOURNAL
Producing journalism that is worthy of the name is a costly business. For 27 years, the publishers, editors and reporters of the Budapest Business Journal have striven to bring you business news that works, information that you can trust, that is factual, accurate and presented without fear or favor.
Newspaper organizations across the globe have struggled to find a business model that allows them to continue to excel, without compromising their ability to perform. Most recently, some have experimented with the idea of involving their most important stakeholders, their readers.
We would like to offer that same opportunity to our readers. We would like to invite you to help us deliver the quality business journalism you require. Hit our Support the BBJ button and you can choose the how much and how often you send us your contributions.
